Category Archives: Finance Guide

Many couples assume only income-earning partners require life insurance policies. What about stay-at-home parents or those without employment incomes? “They may not bring in much income, but their contributions to their families are invaluable – from cooking gourmet meals to helping students prepare science fair projects.” It’s worth protecting these invaluable members of society.” Term […]

Homeowners insurance typically covers your structure, contents, and liability needs. Location can often play an influential role when setting the premium – for instance removing trampolines can significantly raise premiums; so too can proximity to fire hydrants or any conditions which create greater risk on your property. Ask Your Insurer Due to privacy regulations that […]

Insurance companies are required by federal law to cover breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, whether through private insurance or government plans like Medicare. Based on your medical condition and preferences, post-mastectomy reconstruction surgery could take place immediately or months or years post-mastectomy. Your surgeon will help determine the ideal timing. The Women’s Health and Cancer […]

Wood stoves pose an increased risk of fire and smoke damage to houses, as well as carbon monoxide poisoning for their users. Insurance companies require homes with wood stoves undergo a WETT inspection prior to being covered. Homeowners insurance provides protection for your house, personal belongings and landscaping – but using wood stoves to heat […]

An automobile is considered totaled when its repair costs exceed its actual cash value (ACV). Insurance companies estimate this figure by studying repairs done, checking current listings in the area, and using tools like Kelley Blue Book to arrive at an estimation of ACV. Once the company makes its decision, there can be many calculations […]

Most homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for siding repair or replacement in cases where damage occurs due to an insured peril; however, damage due to wear-and-tear or gradual deterioration usually isn’t included. When damage to your siding occurs, it’s essential that you document it by taking photographs and making notes – this will aid the […]

Many credit cards now provide rental car coverage that can save both money and time at the counter. With rental car coverage on board, it’s easier than ever to drive off confidently from any lot or parking garage without incurring additional insurance premiums from rental agencies. Most credit card rental car coverage is secondary, meaning […]

Insurance brokers provide invaluable expertise and access to an expansive selection of policies. Their compensation is set by state laws and must be reasonable and clearly disclosed. Commission is typically included in the policy price, while insurance brokers also sometimes charge a separate brokerage fee that takes into account their ongoing consultative roles, including helping […]

Gap insurance typically comes bundled into your loan payments through your auto insurer or dealership and then discontinued when enough loan payments have been made to match up with the car’s value. Once that point arrives, however, gap insurance can be removed from your plan altogether. Gap insurance provides essential protection to drivers with upside-down […]

Your state or region’s department of motor vehicles often requires proof that a valid, current auto policy exists before registering your car. Proof of insurance may take the form of an insurance card or electronic statement of coverage. Some states also use an automated verification system to quickly check a policyholder’s insurance status. State Requirements […]